How to Clean and Protect Suede Shoes

Suede shoes bring a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit. However, their unique texture makes them a bit trickier to care for than other leather types. To keep your suede shoes looking their best, following the correct cleaning and protection techniques is essential. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about maintaining your suede shoes, ensuring they stay stylish and durable for years to come.

What is suede, exactly?

Suede is a type of leather made from the underside of animal hide. Unlike other leather, its surface features tiny, raised fibers that create a soft, velvety texture. This distinctive feel and look come with some maintenance challenges, as suede can be prone to scuffs, scratches, and water damage.

How durable are suede shoes?

Suede is a resilient material but less robust than full-grain leather. Due to its thinner construction, suede is more flexible and delicate. With proper care and regular maintenance, suede shoes can be as durable and long-lasting as their leather counterparts.

How to Clean Suede Shoes

Cleaning suede shoes requires a gentle touch to avoid damaging the material. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Brush off dirt

Use a suede brush to remove loose dirt and debris. Brush in one direction to lift the dirt without embedding it deeper into the suede. A soft-bristled toothbrush can also work if you don’t have a suede brush.

2. Spot-clean stains

For minor stains, gently rub the area with a suede eraser or a clean, damp cloth. Avoid using too much water, as suede is highly sensitive to moisture.

3. Deep-clean, if necessary

For a more thorough clean, apply a suede-specific foam cleaner. Follow the instructions on the product, and always test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t affect the color or texture of the suede.

4. Dry

After cleaning, let your shoes air dry naturally. Avoid placing them near direct heat sources like radiators, as this can cause the suede to become brittle or warped.

How to Remove Scuffs from Suede

Scuffs and scratches are common on suede but can often be fixed with some simple techniques.

For light scratches:

Rub a clean, dry suede brush over the scratch in a gentle, back-and-forth motion. This can help lift the fibers and diminish the appearance of the scratch.

For deeper scratches:

Apply suede conditioner to the affected area and rub it in with a soft cloth. Then, brush the area again to restore the texture.

For persistent stains:

To remove stubborn stains, you can use a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. Dampen a cloth with the mixture, then gently blot the stain. Let it dry, then brush the area to restore the nap.

How to Protect Suede Shoes

Although suede shoes are perfect for fall, unless you’re wearing boots from our waterproof collection, you’ll need to make sure you keep them away from wet weather. Protecting your suede shoes is crucial to maintaining their look and extending their lifespan, and it’s much easier than cleaning them. Here’s how to keep them in top condition:

Use a suede protector

Apply a suede protector spray to help repel water and prevent stains. Ensure the spray is specifically designed for suede and follow the application instructions carefully.

Avoid wet conditions

Suede is highly susceptible to water damage. Avoid wearing your suede shoes in rainy or snowy weather. Let them dry naturally and brush them to restore the texture if they get wet.

Keep them clean

Regularly brush your suede shoes to prevent dirt and dust from building up. This simple step can help keep your shoes looking fresh and new.

Store shoes properly

When not in use, store your suede shoes in a cool, dry place. Keep them away from direct sunlight and heat sources, which can cause fading and drying out. Use shoe trees to help maintain their shape and absorb moisture.

How to Store Suede Shoes

Proper storage is key to preserving your suede shoes:

Avoid sunlight

Direct sunlight can cause the color of your suede shoes to fade. Store them in a shaded area or inside a dust bag.

Use shoe trees

Insert shoe trees to help maintain the shape of your shoes and prevent creasing. They also help absorb excess moisture, which is beneficial for suede.

Wrap and protect

For long-term storage, wrap your shoes in tissue paper and place them in a breathable shoe bag. This helps protect them from dust and humidity.

Make the Most of Your Suede Shoes

With proper care and protection, your suede shoes can remain integral to your wardrobe for years. Regular brushing, timely cleaning, and proper storage are essential to maintain their appearance and durability.

Discover Clarks’ collection of stylish suede shoes– like our timeless suede Wallabees- and keep them looking pristine with our range of suede care products. From brushes to protectors, we have everything you need to maintain your footwear’s appearance. Browse our full collection and ensure your style stays sharp all season.